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The article titled "Data Story: South Sudan's population surges to 12.4 million, reveals 2021 survey - 211CHECK" provides an overview of the Population Estimation Survey (PES) 2021 conducted by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in South Sudan. The article highlights that the PES is expected to be an essential resource for the government's development planning, decision-making, and provision of services as it provides accurate population estimates and other demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the inhabitants.

The article presents data from the PES 2021, which shows a surge in South Sudan's population to 12.4 million people, a rise of over four million people. The survey was conducted between May 28th and June 15th, 2021, across ten states and three Administrative areas, with a female population of 52.9% and a male population of 47.1%, while the youth population stands at 77%.

However, the article also notes that there have been criticisms from individuals and organizations regarding the authenticity of the data presented in the PES report. Some opposition politicians and civil society members have questioned the estimates that put the total country's population at 12,444,018 and are demanding what they term "a proper census" as per the 2018 peace agreement.

The article does not provide any evidence or counterarguments to support or refute these criticisms but instead quotes Augustino T. Mayai from Sudd Institute who analyzed scientific, political, and policy implications of PES results stating that new estimates are in stark contrast with South Sudan's 2008 census counts.

Moreover, while presenting data on population estimates and projections using statistical methods such as Cohort Component Method, the article does not explore potential biases or limitations associated with these methods.

Overall, while providing useful information on South Sudan's population estimates based on PES data, the article lacks a balanced approach in presenting both sides of the argument regarding the authenticity of the data. The article also does not explore potential biases or limitations associated with statistical methods used for population estimates and projections.